Care After Surgery from Colorectal Surgery at Morristown

When you leave the hospital, the medical team at Atlantic Medical Group Colorectal Surgery at Morristown will provide you with specific instructions related to your surgery. You may be given a special diet to follow for a short time. While you are recovering at home, we recommend the following tips to a healthy, fast, safe recovery.

Home Care

•  Avoid strenuous activity for one to two days after your procedure
• Take sitz baths (sit for 10 minutes in about three inches of warm water) at least three times a day and after each bowel movement
• Don’t worry if you have some bleeding, discharge, or itching during your recovery. This is normal.
• Avoid constipation. Use a laxative or stool softeners, such as Colace®, 100mg by mouth twice daily
• Drink one tablespoon of mineral oil at bedtime
• Eat more high-fiber foods
• Drink six to eight glasses of water a day, unless directed otherwise
• Spend less time sitting on the toilet
• Avoid straining with bowel movements. Straining increases pressure and irritation, which can lead to pain and swelling
• Sexual activity as tolerated. If it starts to hurt – stop

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:

• A fever above 100.5°F
• A large amount of drainage or bleeding
• Trouble urinating
• No bowel movements for more than 48 hours

Read our discharge instructions related to specific surgical procedures: